ECM609-Introduction to econometric software

Module Provider: School of Politics, Economics and International Relations
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: j.j.reade@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module introduces students to a number of econometric packages.

Aims:

This module introduces students to four software packages: Stata, LaTeX, MATLAB, and R. Each software package is introduced in a computer lab session, with students taken practically through the process of using the software.

Assessable learning outcomes:

After completing this module, students should be able to:

• Import data from a variety of sources, suitably transform and adjust it and subsequently plot high quality graphs.


• Run simple OLS estimations and diagnostic checks.


• Use estimated equations to make forecasts.


• Design basic programs for repetitive tasks.


• Use a range of different MATLAB toolboxes and functions for various tasks.


• Use a range of different R packages for various tasks.

Present all of the above in a format suitable for publication.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

This course will take a practical ‘hands on’ approach to introducing students to three main econometrics software programs along with a text processing software.

In particular, the course will consider Stata in Part 1, LaTeX in Part 2, Matlab in Part 3, and finally R in Part 4.

1. Stata is menu-driven and relatively user-friendly, allowing the user to carry out demanding econometric techniques at the click of a button. Stata allows merging of data and sorting of data. It also has powerful program- ming elements, which we will briefly explore. Purchase Stata at: https://www.stata.com/


2. LATEX is a high-quality typesetting system. It includes features designed for the production of professional documents (.pdf), including academic pa- pers, presentation slices, and posters. Download free via: http://www.texstudio.org/


3. MATLAB is a proprietary program ming language developed by Math- Works. MATLAB allows plotting of functions and data, and implementa- tion of algorithms.


4. R is a free software environment for statistical computing and graphics. It becomes increasingly popular because of its open-source feature and rich community. Download free via: https://www.r-project.org/

All four software programs are frequently used by academics and hence are importan t foundations for postgraduate research students, whether they are part of their initial research agenda or otherwise. The importance of making code files available for replication, especially in economics, cannot be understated.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will be delivered through a series of practical classes.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Students will be required to submit a project report, where the data analysis is done in Stata, R or MATLAB. The assessment is to be written up in the LaTeX document preparation system. Submissions are to be no longer than 2,000 words, and will account for 100% of the assessment.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A minimum mark of 50%.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-assessment for all modules takes place in August/September of the same year.

Re-assessment for this module will be by resubmission of similarly assigned coursework.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 4 April 2020